William “Bill” Dow
Died: April 18, 2023 | Place: Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, Strathroy
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Obituary
DOW, William “Bill”…
William Airthrey “Bill” Dow, aged 79, died peacefully at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital on April 18th, 2023, surrounded by the love of his life and their three children.
Cherished husband of Zina (Koval). Treasured Daddy to Anna (Eric), Michael (Megan) and Emily (Jurgen). Adored Grandpa/Papa of Zoe (Sadie), Noah, Isabelle, and Sophia. Bill will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and his siblings May and, especially, his wee sister Elizabeth. Predeceased by his parents Douglas and Betty and brothers Douglas and Colin.
William was born in Airthrey Castle in Scotland. His life was filled with many accomplishments. In his youth, he was a Queen’s Scout and a Sunday school teacher. His beliefs that one should lead by example and that life is filled with teachable moments led him to a career as an educator. He began by teaching at the elementary level and then taught children with special needs. His true calling was teaching young offenders, which he did for the majority of his career. While working at Craigwood Youth Services, Bill became a founding member of the Ontario Association for Students at Risk.
Bill was a community minded person who was a charter member of the Poplar Hill Lions Club, the treasurer for the Poplar Hill Picnic Committee for many years, and a participant with Trees Middlesex Centre.
Bill had a voracious appetite for knowledge and he was a predominantly informational reader. His eclectic interests included gardening, birds, videography, genealogy, Thomas Hardy novels, and the ancient Orthodox Church. For nearly fifty years he took great pride in maintaining the property and home he helped design and build. Bill loved people! He was a true gentleman who had the gift of being able to talk with anyone, anytime, anywhere, about anything. He demonstrated respect and non-judgment for everyone and had a knack for asking people insightful questions that would draw them out and leave them feeling valued, safe, and loved in his presence. The latter was especially true for his family. Bill’s eyes would always light up when his beautiful wife, his children, and his grandchildren were with him. He had such a positive outlook on life and a sense of adventure. Though he would have destinations, he always welcomed detours that he could explore along the way. Bill lived his life as a kind-hearted, compassionate human being and he will be greatly missed.
A brief service, followed by visitation, will be held on Sunday, April 23 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour, 140 Fairview Avenue, London, ON N6C 4T8. The funeral service will be held on Monday, April 24, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the church, with interment following at Woodland Cemetery, London. A remembrance meal will be shared at the parish hall after the interment.
In memory of Bill, please consider a donation to the Saint Elizabeth Foundation, 300-90 Allstate Parkway, Markham, ON L3R 6H3 or to The Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com
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My brother Bill is being sorely missed by all who loved him here on earth. He touched our hearts and was always there as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and uncle to my daughter Deb (Deborah). He was a dear fiend to many and committed to helping and serving in his community. As his sister, being two years and two days younger, we were playmates through our youth, confidants through our teens. Despite being miles apart at times we would visit and keep in touch frequently. His love and admiration for his family through times, when his health was limited, would be expressed as “I’m grateful for family support by Anna, Michael, and Emily and for their love”. Bill always mentioned that “Zina is my angel!” His faith, expressed by his caring and compassion for others throughout his life is testament to a life well lived! He may be gone from this world but he will forever be in our hearts. His spirit will carry on and I know that through faith, we will be reunited. I love you eternally Bill. Your “wee” sister… Elizabeth
I went to school with Michael and remember all the Dow’s so well and with the fondest heart. Thinking of you all and sending my most sincere condolences.
Deepest sympathy to you Emily and Juergen,you all will be in my prayers.
JudyBriggs
I met Bill over 40 years ago through a mutual friend. Although I would only see him once or twice a year, if that, he was always so welcoming to my wife and I. He was indeed a true gentleman as well as a gentle man.
Our condolences to Zina, to Anna, Michael and Emily and their respective families as well as Bill’s siblings.
My condolences to the whole family Mr. Dow was so lovely.
Dear a Zina, Anna, Michael and Emily,
Although it’s been years since I have seen Bill and you all, I have very fond memories of the years when Bill and I taught together at Craigwood and of interacting with you as a family. Bill was an excellent, caring teacher and a great colleague and friend. On behalf of myself and our departed fellow Craigwood staff members, Cy, Colin and Al, I offer my sincere condolences.
Zina, Anna, Michael and Emily – I was so sad to hear of Bill’s passing. My dad, Richard Down, let me know and then shared how much he enjoyed his time with the Poplar Hill Lion’s Club with Bill. He was so friendly and welcoming toward my dad!
I have many memories of Bill and your family growing up from a young age. Two memories that stick out for me – the first, the time he took Emily and I on a road trip one summer to Midland and then we took the boat up through the locks to Orillia. He was such a character! I think this was the year The Firm and Jurassic Park came out in theatres! The other is one winter evening, he and Emily took me home in a sleigh, led by Lady, Anna’s horse! I hope my memory is accurate!
Bill had such a kind heart and my memories of him will be cherished in mine. My heartfelt condolences to you and your families. Blessings and peace to you. Erin
We are sorry to have missed Bills announcement and therefore VISITATION!!! Enjoy your wonderful memories. Sending our condolences and love to you all Zena, Anna, Michael and Emily and families. Sincerely, Jim and Marian